Curly kale

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Curly kale is a highly nutritious and versatile leafy green, recognized by its distinctive ruffled leaves and earthy flavor. Proper storage is essential to preserve its vibrant color, crisp texture, and abundant vitamins, ensuring it remains a delicious addition to your meals, whether in salads, smoothies, or cooked dishes.

Storage Time

Fresh curly kale typically lasts 5–7 days in the refrigerator when stored correctly. If blanched and frozen, it can maintain its quality for 8–12 months.

Temperature

For optimal freshness, store curly kale in the coldest part of your refrigerator, ideally at a temperature range of 0–4°C (32–40°F).

Freezing

To freeze curly kale, first wash the leaves thoroughly and pat them completely dry. For best quality, blanch the kale by submerging it in boiling water for 2–3 minutes, then immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Squeeze out as much excess water as possible. Alternatively, you can freeze raw, chopped kale. Pack the blanched or raw kale into freezer-safe bags or airtight containers, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Frozen kale is best used in cooked applications like soups, stews, casseroles, or smoothies, as its texture will be softer upon thawing. Thaw directly into hot dishes or steam lightly.

Signs of Spoilage

• Yellowing or browning of the leaves, particularly around the edges, indicating a significant loss of freshness and nutrient degradation.
• A slimy, mushy, or excessively limp texture that does not revive after a brief soak in cold water, signaling bacterial growth and spoilage.
• A strong, unpleasant, or sulfur-like odor that is distinctly different from its fresh, earthy aroma, indicating decay.